Former BBC Radio 4 host Mishal Husain speaks out on the evolution of personality-led media, highlighting its potential benefits and challenges in a rapidly changing news landscape.
A Shift Towards Personality-Led Media: Mishal Husain Speaks Out
The BBC Radio 4 Today programme has undergone significant changes in recent months, with some critics arguing that the show’s tone has become more editorialised. Former host Mishal Husain, who recently departed the BBC to front a new interview series on Bloomberg Weekend Edition, spoke candidly about her experiences and the future of personality-driven media.
Mishal Husain is a renowned British journalist and news anchor.
Born in 1973, she rose to prominence as the first female presenter of the BBC's flagship radio program, 'Today.'
Husain has also presented various television programs, including 'The Nine' and 'BBC News at Ten.'
She is known for her incisive questioning and in-depth analysis of global news stories.
With a strong background in politics and international affairs, Husain has become a respected voice in British journalism.
The Evolution of Presenting Style
Husain believes that ‘personality-focused journalism doesn’t have to be bombastic.’ She notes that in the past, she would often say ‘we’ve talked to so-and-so‘ instead of using the word ‘I,’ emphasizing the team effort involved in broadcasting. However, with the arrival of new presenters Amol Rajan and Emma Barnett, Husain acknowledges that the show’s tone has shifted towards a more informal style.
While some listeners have praised the new approach, others have criticized the shift in tone. Husain herself admits to not listening to Today as much as she used to, as her ‘relationship with daily news has changed.’ She emphasizes that this change is not unique to her and reflects a broader shift in how people consume news.
News consumption has undergone significant changes with the advent of digital media.
According to a Pew Research Center study, in 2020, 67% of Americans got news from social media platforms, while 51% used mobile apps.
Online news websites and traditional print newspapers remain popular sources of information.
The shift towards online news consumption is driven by convenience, accessibility, and the desire for real-time updates.
Embracing Personality-Led Journalism
Husain believes that personality-led journalism can be a positive force in media. When done authentically, it can provide a more personal connection with audiences and convey journalistic values. She cautions against the potential pitfalls of bombastic presenting, which can overshadow the news itself.
In her new role on Bloomberg Weekend Edition, Husain aims to bring this approach to bear. She wants to create an environment where presenters are not just personalities but also journalists, conveying their expertise and integrity to audiences.
The Challenges of Reporting from Conflict Zones
Husain has spoken out about the challenges faced by news organizations in reporting from conflict zones like Gaza. The BBC’s decision to ban foreign journalists from Gaza has limited their ability to cover the story, Husain believes. She argues that this approach not only undermines the public’s right to know but also fails to give equal weight to the stories of Palestinian civilians.
The Gaza Strip is a coastal region located on the eastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea, bordering Egypt and Israel.
With a population of approximately 2 million people, it has been under Israeli occupation since 1967.
The region has experienced numerous conflicts, including wars in 2008-2009, 2012, and 2014, resulting in significant damage to infrastructure and loss of life.
Gaza's economy is heavily reliant on international aid, with high levels of unemployment and poverty.
Despite efforts for peace, the region remains a focal point of tension between Israel and Palestine.
Husain‘s comments highlight the complexities and challenges faced by journalists in today’s media landscape. As personality-led journalism continues to evolve, it is essential to strike a balance between authenticity and objectivity, ensuring that the news remains at the forefront of audiences’ minds.
- theguardian.com | Mishal Husain criticises ‘bombastic’ presenting after BBC departure
